If anything today while at work and the classroom taught us today, it’s about one word: Respect.

We all just witnessed the homegoing, or funeral of Aretha Franklin. Whom we all know died 2 weeks ago in her home in Detroit at 76 years old. And to think that she died on the same day decade wise as Elvis Presley, whom passed at 42 in 1977. The fact of the matter is, Aretha you really can’t say too much about her. And yes she had her “rival” moments selling the shade of those wanting to get into her personal realm. But all in all, respect was the keyword.

Like many artists before her, she was raised in the church. Her father was a minister in the south before migrating north to Detroit. And yes, we all know about Detroit and the Motown Sound which also escalated during the Civil Rights Movement. Like many others in the famous side, she was honorary pledged into the black sorority of Delta Sigma Theta, and I’m sure many that heard about this sorority, like assuming. If not check with your friends whom are apart of the Divine 9. Plus the Deltas had conducted a “Omega Omega Service” for their departed honorary Sorority Sister. Now if anyone has been to a funeral in which a Fraternity or Sorority member is funeralized, they usually have a moment of reflection and towards the end, they declare that the deceased member is apart of the “Omega Chapter.” Omega is the end, by the way. Many of us will have an Omega Service in a somewhat fashion in our departure.

Now, we know the hits from Respect, Pink Cadillac, A Rose is Still A Rose, Rock Steady, and even many Gospel hits. Winning numerous awards, even acted movies like The Blues Brothers. For her live performances, we can talk about the Grammys, President Obama’s Inauguration Day ceremonies, and such. But I also saw her doing renditions of America the Beautiful on which wrestling program you asked? WrestleMania. Both at the Pontiac Silverdome and also Ford Field. Now I want to say something here. When I looked at the WWE Facebook Page about her, many of the “WWE Universe” had no idea who she was. Like really. For all of you wrestling fans who don’t know Aretha, does the WWE Network still work? I’m just asking! Do you still google in all? Hello!! Do any of your relatives or black folks you know have any Aretha Franklin songs or albums in the house? You better study! You better ask questions! And that goes for those whom are under 21 and into trap music.

Fast forward to the long nine hour funeral. Oh yeah it was long! If many folks complain about long church services, I’m sure you probably complained about the long preaching, long songs, testimony off script, the eulogy didn’t match up well enough, the dozen of families, dignitaries, special guests, folks protesting about (oops) Donald Trump, and oh it wasn’t just a Homegoing, it was also a time for action of what’s going on in the country. Oh yeah have we heard this before when Coretta Scott King was remembered? And George W. Bush was hammered! Don’t act like we know!

Some of the positive highlights of the service:

Rev. Al Sharpton and his comments about mistakenly spelling respect and telling folks that Donald Trump should use the word describing Aretha.

Rev. Jesse Jackson and the part of him commenting about famous deaths and minimal voting lines.

Michael Eric Dyson and that knowledge. Plus the shade on 45:

These to me were the highlights of the funeral as Aretha was remembered. And yet, even many questioned it. But it had to be said at this funeral because of what the country is going through despite the commentary of 45. You say, what was all the Civil Rights and Activism about? This is supposed to be a funeral! Um….it has happened before. Reference AGAIN Coretta Scott King’s Funeral from 2005 and there was a lot of talk about George W. Bush’s blunders of Weapons of Mass Destruction, and many others. Go back and read it.

Now, music-wise: I’m not going to say, Ariana Grande. But I will say, Jennifer Holiday, Jennifer Hudson, Fantasia, and yes Stevie Wonder. All to me were the highlighted singers that cameout to perform.

Plus we cannot forget, Cicely Tyson who was the oldest in the room giving the knowledge and truth as she always does. When Cicely Tyson talks, we all better listen.

Of course the funeral couldn’t be without the commentary from her family mainly her Grandchildren whom were raised well. And yes there was support from the men, whom looked after Aretha to check on her to make sure that things were well kept and taken care of. Oh, by the way the men were black looking out for the Queen!

Now let me shift back to Ariana: And that touching thing….let me say this: the bishop who of course apologized to Ariana had his hand according to the live footage, was near Ariana’s breast. And many called foul that he shouldn’t have his hand near there, and of course many of the former church crowd cried foul of the hand as well. And if you are of the “former church crowd” that pisses on the church so much, why does this concern you? And I’ll agree sharply that the way it was: totally disrespectful. But as a bigger man, the bishop did infact apologize. He was in the wrong. And of course that when things go wrong on live TV, they go wrong! So yet he did apologize. However, many were calling for his head to be charged or sued of the “illegal touch”. Dude, he hasn’t been charged! There was no indication about him going to jail, or facing court. Until I see any DOCUMENTED PROOF about him being charged, and found guilty, and having his title and leadership stripped, and being banned from his church in all, then you can kick his butt! I haven’t heard the remarks of Ariana. She hasn’t said anything. Not one sentence. Nothing! Come on #MeToo movement! Where are you? And keep in mind that the jury is still out. And here’s the thing: many of us don’t know the Bishop Charles Ellis III well. We don’t! We don’t know him, his education, his family, his finances, and justly we don’t know if he went through a background check.

So if you call these Pastors “janky” after one tiny mistake, that is out of bounds. We don’t know him! Even you non/former church goers should know better! And no I’m not defending him.

And as far as the minister who did the eulogy Rev. Jasper Williams. I will agree that eulogies should be about the deceased. All the way. But if you eulogize or give your final analysis of a person that is not matching, it’s not cutting it. This reminds me of my cousin’s funeral from 2002 in Milwaukee that the minister gave the eulogy but his comments was about George W. Bush and the war in Iraq. But it was not about my departed cousin, who was killed at 21 years old in late July of that year! So I get where the Franklin Family is coming from on that part. On the other hand, the minister’s sermon was like the talk of the town. Folks still slamming it. Then there was a news conference about what was said. This is stupid! Was it a slow news day? Of all the things popped up on Social Media, as well as news outlets, you have this man, this minister had to further explain his eulogy of Aretha Franklin to a worldwide audience after mostly it was sharply criticized. You got to be kidding me! In the words of my Dad. Again, like the bishop, we don’t know him nor done a background check! Many folks already said that he told the truth. In regarding black households not up to par of what was previously. And many houses need to turn back into homes. And to think, partially many kind of missed the mark completely.

I hate to say it but many of you whom are sensitive at darn near everything, and I know many of you are in school and college: Take a class on Public Speaking! Please take that course! Not only take the course, but also learn about “tone”. I’m not talking about music tones, I’m talking about tones in the speech. “Tone” is related to attitude. Um….hello! Learned that back in high school in the 1990s, actually my Senior Year called American Authors. And one of the items for discussion was: “On the Pulse of the Morning” by Maya Angelou from 1993. It’s 25 years old now, but still it’s one of the best toned poems out of the 20th Century. Oh, it was Bill Clinton’s Inauguration.

What will go from here? Besides Aretha’s music. Her videos from the Blues Brothers singing Think. Us Milwaukeeans remember her performing at Summerfest 3 times and the last time I saw Aretha perform was at Summerfest in 1996. And the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra was on stage at the time, during the 4th of July holiday. I kind of shy away from that, but now after her passing, I was glad to see her perform but also glad to see a piece of black history. A piece of Civil Rights History. She was woke before woke was a thing. Not only she was woke and conscious, she acted on it. Not just saying some one liners to get all engaged. Like many before, its hard to pickup the torch and carry it forward for another era. But I think that we know that Aretha’s lessons of her life and entertainment will long be remembered and really can’t say nothing bad about it. We can’t. Now some may argue about her not having a will or not being married. But the fact of the matter is, her mark was felt by many those who packed that church on that August 31st morning, and mostly stayed for 9 hours. And the broadcasts like BET or Bounce TV having to stay on for the 9 hour duration. Plus, even having the now former TV One host Roland Martin filling us in with the summaries via Twitter. Look: I need to say something. When I was looking at my Twitter feeds, there were dumb questions on why Roland was tweeting during a funeral. I think we all know that he is a journalist. And part of what he did, Aretha liked! There were times folks called me out for Tweeting in Church, but guess what it is part of my communications ministry. It’s part of my job! So to those whom say that, I dare you to try it. See how it feels. Oops, I’m sorry, many of you are sensitive! Just let us do our jobs and you can do yours. If you have one.

Overall: between the 4 dress changes, performances, Pink Cadillac Cars, poems, proclamations in all, it was really about one word: R-E-S-P-E-C-T!

Long time ago, I usually say that “August Really Sucks.” I think I say this because that’s when you get the feeling of school is coming. The 2018-19 year is about to start up. BUT….with all what’s going on with Trump messing up the game, a black Milwaukee Radio Station Segment gone, more of the Becky’s of calling the cops being crazy, Harley-Davidson turning 115 in all: I’m scratching my head again.

Did we really need the Hallmark Christmas Movies in July?

Schools of America: Are you ready for the classrooms?

For all the fans of “Shut up and dribble”: Do you hate LeBron James now? After he opened a school in the area Akron, Ohio?! Hmmmm……what about it?!

Are many folks ready for Roland Martin’s new show on September 4th? Spoiler Alert, you need the internet!

Wisconsinites: August 14th is coming up real fast. So you made your marks yet? Who’s betting on Mahlon Mitchell to go all the way?

For the listeners and fans of WNOV: what happens now after “The Forum?”

Milwaukee: Black Arts Fest MKE debuts. Will it be successful and the anticipation be in the staple of the City of Festivals? Just to think that 5 years ago, African World Festival happened. And unceremoniously: for the last time.

Is the Wisconsin State Fair still hyped?

Is the NFL Preseason still good to watch? And justly, not many will not watch the NFL in regarding Colin Kaepernick.

This fall: it will be my 25 years that I backed Bucky. When they got hot and went to the Rose Bowl in 1994 and won the game. (Rose Bowl with Barry Alvarez winning it all) But my question is, can these Football Badgers of now in 2018-19, go for the big one?

What about the new name for the New Bucks Arena? Now known as the Fiserv.Forum?

Alright this needs to be asked: what was the gall purpose of those Black Pastors IN the 45 Wacky White House meeting up with Trump? And what was Milwaukee Bishop Darrell Hines doing there?!!! Was it really about Prison Reform?! And speaking of that, Darrell Scott said that Trump is the “The most blackest president ever.” EXCUSE ME?!!! And having the balls to diss Obama?

Milwaukee: we will have some guests coming to town in later weeks for Harley-Davidson’s 115th Anniversary. Yeah, our every 5 year anniversary is coming yet again. But the question is: will EVERY neighborhood and community in Milwaukee be ready for this? And also will the Black Community be represented? You know it was almost left out IF the Iron Elite Black Biker Jam had not happened! As well as also the MLK Jr Drive Area had not happened either!

For you Bird Scooters Fans: yes you know that already that the City of Milwaukee had began to declare the Bird Scooters to be illegal to operate. In parts of the operating of the scooters didn’t comply under the State of Wisconsin’s DOT Laws. Yes, the city had to comply with the rules in terms of the state. Chapter 340 Paragraph 35. It’s clearly states that. For you Bird Scooter fans: didn’t you read that part before leaving the scooters around? Just asking!

For the Alumni on ALL levels: you ready to donate back to the old high schools and colleges?

For the teachers: you ready to get back to the grading papers?

For the Administrators: what about that idea of facilitating new ideas in the schools and colleges?

For you Parents: will you be willing to visit the schools not just because of the games or graduation?!

Will many folks NOT be jealous about taking pics of their kids going to school on the first day on Social Media?

When it comes to the black churches, why are they are REALLY dying out? What is the REAL Reason?

Jerry Springer has been on TV nearly 28 years. And how?

It’s funny though, we see and read about all those comments about the “misfits” can’t mount to nothing. Hmmmm……what if they did? And provide that evidence?

When will the Wisconsin State Fair have an African-American Career Expo? It had it once before!

Milwaukeeans: Century City I area will be getting it’s first tenant: GoodCity Brewing. It’s not Amazon, but can it generate jobs for the area?

Class of 2019: are you ready to get this semester over with? Especially if you are a Senior!

For all those going into school/colleges for the first time, you must be nervous. We all been there. But will you make sure that your first year is a learning experience?

For all those who are still in it at school/college: can you maintain the pressure?

Final question here: How will all of our leaders continue to adapt the ways of the 45 moronic orange head, while many of us have to go through crap everyday dealing with all the mess that most of the GOP do spew out? In other words, HOW LONG?!

Mark that date down that many in Black Milwaukee will not be happy to hear. The reign of WNOV’s The Forum segment has surprisingly closed. Due to this decision was not “mutual” or irreconcilable differences. By now at this hour, you’re just listening to the hours between 9am – 12pm and no Sherwin Hughes on the microphone. No Forum. No more “Bye Felicia Awards”(the awards that got you locked out with bad remarks) and no voice here. But the voices are still out for more.

What will actually be a factor to enhance the voice of concern to the African-American Audience of Milwaukee? And second, if those had been following The Forum for all or most of the six years, is the due season coming for the next level of hosts? When I was listening to the radio today this morning, nothing but music in the 9-12 hour slot. Nothing but R&B, Rap & Hip Hop. Nothing but that. Of course the show at the previous hour was on during the slot but many like me, didn’t hear that voice to talk about the issues and happenings of the day. Yeah, that was missed! Was there friction between the management and host? What really let to the dismissal? Most of us reviewed the comments of the listeners online via Facebook when the story broke, and many found it like: “WNOV made a huge mistake of this decision”. “That’s jacked up”, or “Why during the midterm election season going on” (shades of 1290 WMCS being cancelled), and many also did appreciate the value of the host for his political viewpoints and raised an idea to get back in the game by using a different platform like podcasting .

I will admit, the Monday of today is not the same as last week. It’s a different week. And I don’t know how the radio works in terms of broadcasting or getting your messages out to the mass folks that are listening with management and experience. Hopefully, we’ll get to the real bottom of this and actually get a real conclusion beyond the “irreconcilable differences” in Milwaukee Radio. Not trying to speculate anything, but many may ask, why this dismissal was necessary in 2018?

“The Forum” ran for 6 years. And yes in those six years, we heard many topics. And to me, it mattered to Black Milwaukee and the listeners alike because we needed a fresh prospective from an angle that was never given before. I think also we needed a fresh prospective from the Generation X point of view because its clearly thought that the older generation was listening and learning. Many look at Generation X being all slackers and can’t do nothing right. Well that’s a load of BS. That’s not in part of the truth. And I’m part of the 1965-1981 crowd of the generation. And another reason why it mattered to the black community and it’s an obvious one, we need to keep and maintain our issues, our conversations, happenings, health stories, finance, lifestyle, creations, education and dozens of topics at hand everyday! Even yes addressing crime and racism. The three hours were just a spoke on the wheel, but the reality is that must keep the voice of the community on point and visible all the time. And that is why partially, the voices in the black community must be more than just one. It must be many!

What were my top moments in The Forum’s history? Let’s go into that right now. But first, I’ll dig into the crates of my blog stories that can support the story.

Going back to 2013, I remember a segment about opinion polls:

Now I’ve been heard about the recent Marquette Poll, or the Raussman Poll. This percentage of citizens this and this percentage of that. And mostly I’ve heard the question on black radio stations like WNOV, and asking, “Were you polled?” or “I was never polled on this topic.” Most of the folks in my opinion who do these polling statues, are white. Think about it. I’m just saying. And check this, how many of these polls in Wisconsin were done by African-Americans? No matter which side they see? AGAIN: there is 6% of African-Decent living in the Badger State.

2014: During Black History Month….

I was listening to WNOV today. Yes The Forum with Sherwin Hughes. He had on a guest of the name Oshi Adelabu who really dropped serious knowledge on why Black History Month is around. He also dropped real serious topics about us black folks don’t really know our history as much as the other ethnics. If anyone in America, or in Milwaukee had a chance to listen to him, you probably got lectured on a different level. And he did address the concerns of those who are our children who don’t care about the history. And the reason being, partially many of the adults don’t really go into the deep reason of the hidden stories of lynchings, hangings, inside discrimination, the first Egyptians being black (in which they were) or telling blacks not to go into the doors that whites used to go. I think our generation (the lower half of Gen X, Y, Millennials) were and are shielded from the extreme part of it and many of us don’t care. It’s sad to say but it is. Want a prime example: go to the Instagram and look at those bogus pics like, “Pookie and them were the first blacks to get turnt up in the club drinking Hennessy.” You mean to tell me that we would poke fun at those who have blazed trails, set new foundations, and declare holy hell on those who feel that this occasion that was started in 1926 is a joke of a failure? No its not a joke of failure because those who made the joke or the bad assumptions felt cheated because we haven’t learned the deep gist of the occasions. Of what it supposed to be. Yet, many years ago, I didn’t understood a lick of why black history month exists. But as I grew older and to appreciate the value of our summarizing our ancestors, and what is going on now, it has become to me a staple. More like a centerpiece celebration. I mean “every occasion” has a centerpiece.

2013 when Harley-Davidson was 110 years old. And the black community was almost left out, and yes even the late Polly Williams weighed in:

Recently up until the days and weeks before the start of the celebration, there was almost a concern. A concern about the African-American Community being left out of the celebration with nothing on the program. I read the Harley Bikers Guide courtesy of Visit Milwaukee, in which almost every organization or company had sponsored the event, but I didn’t see ANY representation of the African American Community that either was on the cover, nor in the ads! Come on, now! Just a thought that African-Americans do ride motorcycles, and are apart of the biker culture and network. But until recently, the organization of the MLK Street Jam folks have added a line up, vendors, and live music for the 110th. Originally, “The MLK Street Jam BBQ” was the name in the Black Community and yes 5 years ago, it was a listing among the Brady Street, and other Street Jams for the Harley Riders and non riders alike. I was listening to WNOV last Monday about the concern, and about the concern of the black bikers not having a connection for the 110th in which the black community, I think I may have heard that, in means of where to go, and having black businesses to engage the support of the event. Personally that almost hurt. Did some businesses or connections from H-D or Visit Milwaukee, ever talked to the Milwaukee black community, or those along MLK Jr. Drive about hosting a spot for the 110th Anniversary ahead of time? Did anyone who is African-American that works for H-D in the Greater Milwaukee Area asked those in the black community or inform of the 110th events beforehand? That is a question I want to know. Maybe Harley-Davidson needs to have Inner City Sessions on jobs, or outreach. Or have a parade to route along MLK Drive or Sherman Boulevard to Milwaukee’s Washington Park for a fellowship. I heard that portion on WNOV.

Just to add: in the days after this segment, Jammin’ 98.3 held a Iron Elite Black Biker Jam at Uihlein Soccer Park in which displayed the different motorcycles, vendors, The Kevin Hayden Trio Band and several famous faces like Willie G, whom we all know is a descendant of the company. And even film director, F. Gary Gray. Whom also did a special documentary of the Iron Elite and the history of the African American Harley-Davidson Riders. Food for thought. And no, it was not racist.

Elsa’s on the Park and the issue of racism and this was my “introduction” to The Forum in it’s inaugural year of 2012:

This story has been non-stop. Even on the radio has been non stop. This morning, I was listening to WNOV 860AM, and there is a new segment called “The Forum” with radio host Sherwin Hughes. By the way the radio station is now online at http://www.wnov860am.com; and as well on the radio. Plus you can listen to the station via the Apps on Android, Blackberry, and the I-Phone. “The Forum” is a hard hitting segment in which the topics of political, civil and many other issues that seem and gain the thought in the African-American Community; that will you will not find like on WTMJ or any other station that most don’t address issues like this in Milwaukee. Sherwin voiced his liberties in terms of the incident at Elsa’s as of what happened. Apparently, the information given was from of his close friends in which was the victim of the incident that took place. Sherwin and those like him will never set foot in a place that doesn’t feel “welcomed”. But he also said that there might be folks who would still support the establishment and spend their money! Hold up. Why would ANYONE would continue to support any organization or company that has or had bad experiences that dealt with racial problems concerning African-Americans and not everyone else? It’s the same thing with Milwaukee’s clubs on the East Side. Some of them had negative experiences with black folks too, as in terms of not letting them in. If I was a customer per say, and this went down, GOODBYE! No more Elsa’s. Go somewhere that can be appreciative to me,and fair quality of service. Like Black-Owned Businesses. And for the record, I have some members in my family that do own, operate, coordinate, and direct their own businesses. And they’re African-American living in Milwaukee. Yes, I know that this experience is well “sensitive” to most, BUT it is a concern that must be addressed. Everyone around the country that knows about Milwaukee’s Segregation problems, I can them saying, “you need to talk!” NO MORE HIDING! It’s either “put up or shut up.” We have too. Matter of fact, we Americans have to address this issue of race as well instead of running away to other cities and countries just to get away. I’m just saying.

2016: The year we lost Eric Von.

When the day of September 8th came when Eric’s death came up: it was like a shock. I kept reading my Facebook Newsfeeds to see if this was real. When you get those notices of a well known figure around your community that died, usually it’s a hoax via Social Media. BUT……this was no hoax. Eric Von really did die at his home in the Sherman Park Community. The next day, WNOV was really focused on him, his life and work. I was listening to his segment and The Forum and let me tell you: it was sad, but it was a time to celebrate him of what he brought to us over the years. No matter if it was his days at 1290, or WNOV. The callers kept calling the station to offer their condolences and sympathies. Even former 1290 Personalities that called in to do the same thing. And those that used to rival WNOV were also called in to equal the messages of those offering condolences. I will admit, it will be hard to replace him on the radio. But I think that with all of this, the WNOV Family; no, the remaining WNOV family will be fine. It will take time, but still will be fine.

Also with that, there was radio broadcast about Sherwin commentating about his then-health problems in terms of him going under an examination. Which also led him to get an colonoscopy. He was very expressive about his health in terms of what he had and was able to still do the show. In the lessons followed, yes he still addressed the medical issues that many of us in the African-American Community don’t go to the doctor. Specifically us African-American Men! This was an eye-opener and yes, I’ve been woken as well. It’s a life saving issue that many must not cover up nor ignore! Speaking of colonoscopies, the age limit for that, is still in the 50’s, but there might an age reduction to about 45 and up because now many of the those in that age range may have to get checked for that detection! Either way: GET SCREENED! I would say this to the men, but women you too! Of course you already know that.

Also in 2016: The aftermath of picking 45 and questioning whom to look next.

Sixth: I was listening to WNOV this morning. And there was question about who will represent the Black Community in the Trump era? Black folks: Look to our Senators, Our Congressmen or Congresswomen. Our Alderpersons, regional leaders whom are black. Here in Milwaukee: We got just to name a few, Senator Lena Taylor, State Representative Jason Fields, Congresswomen Gwen Moore, Alderwomen Chantia Lewis and Milele Coggs, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Khalif Rainey, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Russell Stamper II, County Supervisors: Marcelia Nicholson, Supreme Moore Omokunde, and Willie Johnson Jr. And no, I’m not putting Sheriff David Clarke on the list because I think now we in the community are waking up with the real truth about him. He’s not what he says he is. He don’t qualify. Other black leaders like Kamala Harris, Cory Booker, Shelia Jackson-Lee, and other well known black officials must not be overlooked either that can be viable to represent.

Let’s see, another highlight I remember: Building an African American Community Center in 2013.

Let me go in on my home of Milwaukee for a bit. I have to blog about this story that is very dear and I think important to think about for the African Americans for our city. Recently this week, I was paying attention to Milwaukee Black Radio, namely WNOV about a comment of a potential (idea-wise) African Community Center. As many of us Black Milwaukeeans know it was supposed to be built near the Milwaukee County Transit System Headquarters, which is near 17th and Fond Du Lac, years back. But however it never got built. Many were and still asking why.

Just yesterday and today, I listened to WNOV’s Sherwin Hughes, with guests Mikel Holt, former Alderman Fred Gordon, and Troy Shaw, and in a twist of that thought: It had something to do with that project and the Italian Community Center. From the commentary, one of the then-Milwaukee Alderman’s Mike D’Amato had a problem with that. In regarding that project of the African Community Center, that would give dilemmas for the Italian Community Center. Say what?!!! When you really think about that, Milwaukee has Community centers of the Irish, German, Mexican, LGBT, Spanish, Asian and Italian. But not a African Community Center, based on this absent minded thought? Really?

Now I know that others who are non-black and reading this blog and from the Greater Milwaukee Area are probably might come out and say, “Oh that racist! Why does he have to write that? We are all Americans. We should be equals.” Oh Shut up! I’ve heard that so many times. I get it. Remember when I said that I’m embracing my African-American side, while expressing my slice of Americana? This is what I’m doing right now. I’m expressing my freedom of expression as an American, while honoring my African-American, or American of African decent laurels. Period. If WNOV’s “The Forum” can do it, so can I.

Just to clarify currently that the site of the former America’s Black Holocaust Museum that the late James Cameron founded was torn down, but as of this year on Juneteenth Day, it was resurrected in a new Museum with Apartments. It’s called “The Griot” and it sits near the corner of 4th and North Avenue in the same area. Hopefully this can be a new start of getting OUR African Community Center started up to educate, entertain, inform and summarize the news and happenings in the Black Community.

From last August: Confederate Monuments in Wisconsin.

Most recently, I was tuning into a radio broadcast of WNOV, yes the black station in Milwaukee. And it featured a story that had a Confederate monument in my homestate of Wisconsin. I’m not joking. You might be saying to yourself: WAIT, WHAT? Wisconsin had a Confederate Monument?! Really? Here is the featured story, from June of 2015. As we all know that Wisconsin was a Union state during the Civil War. Check out the site called “Iron Brigader”, or do a search called, “The Confederate Cemetery in Madison, Wisconsin”. I’m reading this article for the first time. And the thing that struck me out of the story was the fact that I had no idea, no iota that this existed in the state of Wisconsin. Never in my near 41 years living in the Badger State I knew that. The story summarizes that the use of the Cemetery was the burial place of the Union Soldiers that died in the Civil War. It also summarized that part of the Cemetery was known as “Confederate Rest” in which that 140 of the Confederate Soldiers whom were POW’s was buried in the area. Before that, majority of the Confederate Soldiers (approx. 1,000 plus) that were captured, were sent to Prairie Du Chien, and then to Madison. Many of them also were diagnosed with Measels, Mumps, Pneumonia, not enough food or medicine for the prisoners and many died because of it. Also some the prisoners were transported to Camp Randall (the same Camp Randall where the Wisconsin Badgers play on the UW-Madison Campus) for medications and supplies to receive treatments. Additional before Camp Randall was the house that many of the Big 10 feared, it was a training ground for the then Union Volunteer Soldiers during the Civil War. Now you wonder why Camp Randall Stadium is a “battleground” on Saturday afternoons! The story also summarized about a woman, Alice Waterman who was southern born that moved to the city to care for the Cemetery that housed the dead soldiers. She put her own financial needs to care for the graves and markers to maintain them. She is also buried at the cemetery towards the front of the site.

And to add, like other Confederate Monuments in America, that too was removed.

2014 when many got so “sensitive” about Black Milwaukee Radio. Like really?!

And check this: even Sheriff David Clarke had to call in and say “It’s David Clarke. Tone it down.”

I want to make a comment about this. I want to tell all the folks, the hyper sensitive folks something. Just my opinion: THIS WILL NOT BE TONED DOWN ON ANY FRONTS! NONE! Many times I said that Milwaukee is the most segregated city in America. That is a fact. Even if those live in the North Shore area gonna learn today. Obviously, most are afraid. They are scared. When I listening to the entire 3 hours, Sherwin had made strong references that many agreed about the understanding of black and white citizens. Even a black Vietnam Veteran! Where’s Sheriff Clarke on that? No where. Where are those who had to gall to call the station, after not what they want to hear based on strong and TRUE references? I said this on the MyFoxMilwaukee blogs that many will get mad when the truth comes out. Even if an owner gets all hyped negatively about a McDonald’s harboring Drugs and Mary Jane!

Speaking of Toning Down: Where is the “Toning down” of prevention of drugs in businesses?

Where is the toning down of high unemployment among African Americans IN Milwaukee? WHERE YOU AT CONSERVATIVES?!!!!!!

Where is the toning down of admitting the fact that this region and state is still segregated? And having Transportation issues of getting to the jobs? Hello, folks!

Where is the toning down of preventing teen pregnancy, not being in the poor category IN Milwaukee? EXCUSE ME?!!!!!

Where is the Toning Down of Drugs being going into the suburbs and while many get off easy, but hard in the larger metro areas?

WHERE IS THE TONING DOWN of the so-called others who thought that a school like Malcolm X shouldn’t be an Community Center after it was legally PASSED by MPS?!!

Where is the toning down on the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Comment folks who blast things that they don’t and get a freaking pass? Such as one JSOnline commenter at one time had talked about that an officer should have punched Jeanine Tracy harder while being handcuffed in a squad car!

Where is the toning down on these Conservatives Radio folks like Mark Belling who labeled Derek Williams a thug after being handcuffed in the back of a squad car? Couldn’t breath in all. Neck broken. And died on the scene.

Where is the toning down of the Hilton Garden Inn, and Alderman Bob Bauman, about the accusations of black nightlife like 618 on Water, and many other clubs that mostly cater to African-Americans,and Urban Hip Hop Music?!!! And having those NOT LIVING in Milwaukee had to jump in? UM, EXCUSE ME?!!!

Where is the toning down of the State of Wisconsin that is getting sued by Talgo because of the refusal of the High Speed Rail project, that many of the leeches of the Tea Party Wisconsin based, plus Scott Walker shutting it down? Hmmmmm………don’t see it here!

What’s up with that? Milwaukee County Residents?!!!!! You all getting all hyper sensitive about a black man’s strong truthful reference, and don’t want to admit it. Folks like Sheriff David Clarke needs to understand that he is going to get talked about. Period. I mean, if various folks can talk about Chris Abele, Tom Barrett, Scott Walker, Senator Lena Taylor, or any other official, so Clarke is off the list? REALLY?! But if Sherwin is wrong of what he said about him, maybe the second black Democratic (but mostly REPUBLICAN supportive) Sheriff needs to be a man about it and defend his record!

And what about being “Church Hurt?” From this year in January!

Last week on the first Friday of the year, I listened to WNOV’s The Forum Program. And the full 3 hours of the program was about those who have been “church hurt”, or being hurt by the church. It was based on the article that some folks read (mainly younger black folks) about the reasons why they don’t attend church. And I’ll bet it came from those who haven’t been there. It also featured those whom have had history in the church ranging from bishops, ministers, and members whom have those vivid memories but mostly it was NEGATIVE! As I was listening to the program, it was coming from those who say it was a scam, the black church don’t allow the LGBT no love, and other negative factors. Oh the issue of money was conversed. I want those being effect by this “church hurt” thing to hear me out on this. Yes, there are pastors, bishops, deacons, and many other church leaders that did things negatively on the value of money. Yes, it’s true. BUT: don’t assume that it’s all of the Churches! Not all the churches are about MONEY. Not all of the church are about kicking out the LGBT. Not all the Churches are about the erasing the thought of supporting young folks. Not all churches are about hating on someone who is in need of coming in to keep warm from the freezing cold! Not all CHURCHES are the same! WAKE UP! If that were the case, I wouldn’t be in church now! I’m sorry you’ve been hurt. Church hurt. But many of you members who haven’t been to any the services in a minute, and you’re complaining, why haven’t you come forward? Ok, maybe you have been working. Raising families. Taking care of a senior person. Or sat out and did nothing. And you complain. If you complain and not attended the services, you need to go! If you are on the membership roll that haven’t been at the services, meetings, events, activities or there special outings to support or donate, then you need to retool and revise your membership! Hate to say that.
Don’t always assume that the church is ALL evil. What is evil is being put or driven by those who spoil the bunch. That is EVIL! Hell, I wouldn’t stepped into a 4th Generation family tradition that I wouldn’t be able to work, earn scholarships, utilized groups (both men and women), photograph archives, record sermons and still raised almost 28 years later! That’s right, this June will be my Church Anniversary of coming in as a full member through conformation class. That’s a joy. And that’s positive. And the Church NEEDS MORE POSITIVE OUTLOOKS! Not just hearing the music or the sermons. And also the biggest issue that many have against the church besides the money and pastor, is when we get done hearing the sermons, we go out to eat to Red Lobster or a local restaurant. Church folks got to eat too! There are 168 hours in week. The Average hours on a Sunday morning Worship Service is like what, 2 hours? So in those two hours of Church, we go to the restaurant and chow down for about 1 hour or so. And we go home. BUT THE WORSHIP WORK in the week goes on. It goes on at your job. Your community centers. Your activities of recreation, homes, the elderly, Your Sorority, Fraternity, Veterans Groups, Peace Groups, Activism, Alumni Associations, etc. Even when you help folks to Vote! That is your Worship Work in the continuation of the Church! Think about that. If many more folks in Milwaukee who were listening to that broadcast would actually get it, they would actually get it. I know some understand.
I say this mainly to Milwaukee. After all, it was a Milwaukee Black Radio broadcast of WNOV that commented on this. We know what the host said. We know what the guests said. And we know that. But look here: it’s not perfect. Many of you go to clubs on Saturday Night, partying in all. Being catered. Which is nothing wrong at all. But also, like the church at times, there are members of the clubs whom can be hypocritical of the DJ, the clothes, the set up, the bar, the drinks, the food, the parking, and the security. Just like your jobs, groups and etc. You don’t hear me! We’re trying. We know it’s hard. After all, being a Christian or a every Sunday church person is not just happenstance. It’s a hard job. Period. But with God’s grace, we’re up for the challenge.
Amen.

These are just a sampling of the highlights while listening to the program for those 3 hours. And 6 years. And the things I mentioned here, serves as a lesson to engage and take it out to the world and educate our minds and thoughts about the concerns and joys per se to commence. A lot of this, I do credit “The Forum” for allowing me to express my viewpoints here and summarize them to all of you. Mainly for those whom haven’t been to Milwaukee or have not seen Milwaukee in ages! And to think that, it was not a surprise in coming. And the host has seen this blog before, so I say to that thank you!

However, why I talked about this? It goes all the way back to February 2012, when there was a rally on King Drive in about “We stand for our men for Jobs”. The very same rally that former Wisconsin State Rep Elizabeth Coggs formed. And the guest MC you asked? Homer Blow. He also expressed that morning about that we must continue to tell about what’s going on in Milwaukee. If we take pictures, blog (like I’m doing now) or whatever, this is what we have to do. So I’ve been doing this since 2005 by doing this blogging thing that may not be noticeable. But based on this and the good highlights I’ve written about in the past, my voice along with my brain, is paying attention. If this blog had not existed, I wouldn’t be telling this now. Not about anything that pertains to Milwaukee or Black America. That would be in the interests of the Newspapers or journals that rely on the sources all the time. But what happens when the sources don’t get to the source we want? That is why that blogs like this and many others need to fill in the gaps of what we know to continue the conversation. As I said before, this is not for a job thing, this is a personal thing. And the personal thing to me is to help correct the wrongs that I went through growing up to be added on to the masses of research and homework assignments. And yes, WordPress camps.

The guests over the years comprised of politicians, business owners, activists, educators, historians, young men and women, Gen X’ers, Baby Boomers, Millennials, and organizers all stopped by to lend their viewpoints of the subjects at hand. Even guests like Officer Jack, a former MPD Police Officer that gave the audience about scenarios in regarding police work and also what to do regarding law enforcement and the understanding the law. Former Milwaukee Public Schools Superintendent Darienne Driver (who recently resigned this year) was on the show usually on the first Fridays of the month that gave us statuses about the conditions and happenings in the Schools. Others from Mary Burke to Lena Taylor, to Gwen Moore, and to Mahlon Mitchell, same thing. Speaking of Mary Burke that many didn’t realized that when she was campaigning for Governor (and later lost to Scott Walker) she appeared on the show more times than any other Republican Representative. Even more than Scott Walker whom have not appeared once. Something should have told you there. And yes, even the former Sheriff David Clarke stopped through as well wearing a Trump Shirt. The callers you asked? They ranged from everyday folks that know the city very well, even a black Marine Corps Veteran that the host ALWAYS acknowledges every time!

So guess what, black people and those others wanting to know? “The Forum” was only the spoke on the wheel. But, there is so much work to be done. Even telling our stories continuously. You will not hear this from WISN 1130 or 620 WTMJ. Or any other progressive format. Nope, not here! Not happening! Oh, by the way: for those of us that couldn’t get past the emptiness of The Forum, the show recorded 832 segments in it’s 1,000+ shows. Check out The Fourm 860’s Website for all the references.

Now I know that the Milwaukee Brewers are having a heck of a season. They are. And reached 50 plus wins in the NL Central. Oh yeah it’s positive vibes.

But that’s the good news. The bad? Josh Hader. If anyone paid attention to the recent All Star Game in which the National Team lost, there was a report about Josh Hader using racial terms, or messages on all things: Twitter. There was messages of “White Power” and hating gays and many others. Seriously. And he was 17 years old. A teenager. When I saw the footage about him making that appearance to the mound, and the fans making the standing ovation, that to me is a problem. How can any fans in Baseball, especially majority white, give a guy like Josh Hader a standing ovation after his racist remarks? This looks very bad and disturbing. Especially for the Milwaukee Brewers Organization.

Many are saying, “he was 17 years old”. And saying this on social media. Of course, that the old heads kept saying that be careful what you post. Even I said this! Josh Hader is getting that lesson right now even in the City of Milwaukee that we all know that it’s segregated. Do majority of the white folks who come to Miller Park or any other comes to Milwaukee Special Events knows about the segregated checkered past? They better. Now I know that I’m getting a reaction of like “yes we know”. But we don’t know enough. Have I’ve been discriminated against my black skin in Wisconsin? Yes. I’ve explained it over and over again about being hated on for a job offer through Dresser Waukesha 8 years ago. It will be 8 years next month in August when I got that letter from Tallahassee, Florida about black folks not being hired by the company due to it’s checkered past of racism in the Greater Milwaukee Area. This is one of the reasons why I don’t usually respond to job postings as much because of this matter. Of course many companies will say, “we don’t discriminate against anyone based on race, creed, class, gender, etc.” But do many companies actually feel this way? Let’s be honest, not all of them. But there are those whom are jealous about a applicant that they just looked up on LinkedIn or Facebook who had all the credentials and being passed over all because he or she was black or highly educated. That’s why we have folks like Scott Walker and Donald Trump whom have all that White Privilege and I dare say, racist angles in office. And majority of the voters put them in office. And I’ll bet many who put them in office, don’t want a guy like Mahlon Mitchell per se in the race to be the next Wisconsin Governor. To me, I’m still betting on Mahlon to get a chance to steal this shocker to get the chair in Madison. But that’s another story.

Long time ago in Church, my older sister once said about being careful what you say during a Youth Moment segment. Even she also said if it was in the second grade. By looking at the racist tweet from age 17, Josh Hader had to be in high school as either a junior or senior. Go figure.

If any of the African-American players on the Brewers whom like Eric Thames, Lorenzo Cain, or Keon Braxton said some messages of hate on Social Media, they will be GONE! Out of the picture or banned! And many will be asking why that is. For Josh Hader, he will be getting the full “Ethnic Sensitivity Treatment Classes” on respecting cultures in all. It’s kind of interesting, that the Milwaukee Brewers in August are having a theme night event called African-American Heritage Night on August 3rd, in commemorating the Negro League Tribute to the Milwaukee Bears, whom at one time were apart of the city’s history that was long forgotten. When I saw the comments on Facebook, there were some “jerk offs” had to ask about, when is Polish American Night happening, or making some meaningless jokes about black culture. I’m not kidding. And many don’t realize that the problem in Major League Baseball is the diversity that not enough black folks are engaged with the game. Unlike Football or Basketball. Wait until football season starts either NCAA or yes the NFL. Just wait. And also that Heritage Night is day before of the newly Black Arts Fest MKE will be debuted at Summerfest after a 5 year absence of no African World Festival in the city.

Another thing comes to mind that the same week that Josh Hader’s racist tweets had surfaced, guess what? Hulk Hogan was reinstated into the WWE Hall of Fame in the same week! For those whom may have forgotten, Hulk Hogan was suspended for three years from the company’s Hall of Fame Status due to the fact that he was caught using the N word in regarding the thought of someone who would date his daughter Brooke. And oh, the firestorm had started. Forget about Hollywood Hulk Hogan with the nWo Heel Turn, this was Hulk Hogan or Terry Bolea using the N word and getting caught red handed out for that. When he was reinstated after three years, last week yes he wanted to make things right, but not every black WWE Superstar ranging from The New Day to Titus O’Neill didn’t somewhat approve of him being back. Except for Mark Henry whom is a newly inducted WWE Hall of Famer.

But the fact of the matter is, Hogan had to get right with himself about what he said. Maybe, just maybe that Josh Hader should do the same. And oh, it will not take a week. But the sting still remains in regarding to talk about race in all angles even in sports and entertainment. The jury on both is still out. As well as accountability.

Just now ,this has been popped in my head. I’m scratching my head again about Milwaukee’s Big Gig. Summerfest is coming on June 27th this year kicking off #51. And yes, you fest goers need to get your gear on and being the attendees you are: Curious, interested, ready, happy, drunk, and yes going for a good time. Not exactly in that order. I’m not just scratching my head here. I’ve been scratching my head about this for a LONG WHILE! And yes, I used to work there. Oh, if you are a current Summerfest management worker, start taking notes.

Why there are folks wondering that Summerfest is 51 this year, and not 50? (Originally Summerfest actually had it’s planning ideas in 1966-67).

Summerfest as many knows attracts all kinds of music. How often does it attract Gospel music? For you the unfamiliar crowds, go to a Black Church to hear a gospel music choir or buy either Kirk Franklin or John P. Kee. Or Snoop Dogg’s Bible of Love. And by the way, I’m not a Gospel fan, but I’m doing you Gospel heads a favor here.

Why was it really hard to get Hip Hop/Rap acts to Summerfest, like in the last couple of years? Now it’s not a concern. And not many in the black community can’t relate to RATT or Whitesnake. Or even George Thorogood and the Destroyers. I’m just saying.

Is it really hard to get to know the free days? Especially if you coming home from work!

Just for the record, if you buy a piece of merch from the big gig, you know you are supporting local stuff, right? Just like the pins. I need a Summerfest pin from the 50th to my collection!

This is what Summerfest needs: Have a free networking day for the FORMER Employees. Can that be done?

What is that music thing with the headphones and folks are dancing around to DJ Music? Can Summerfest do this?

It appears that the change in music scenes around Summerfest go from old fashioned to the rave like style. Agree or disagree?

I need to ask this: when looking at the fireworks for the Big Bang, can DJ music be a factor? As well as fireworks on top of the US Bank Building like before and maybe…….The Northwestern Mutual Tower or the 833 Building?

Speaking of Black Music Month: by the way June is Black Music Month for those whom don’t know; who were the well known Black acts to perform at Summerfest? Local or famous?

And who is the latest well known now Black act to perform at Summerfest? Local or famous?

Should Summerfest have a free day for the American Legion Family? Like the free day for the Military and Veterans?

Wait a minute: This also came to mind. Summerfest needs an MPS Alumni Day and MPS Proud Day to support the Milwaukee Public Schools. Should this be a good thing? As well as other schools that are not MPS? And I’ll best many of the MPS Alumni probably got one of their gigs at Summerfest doing work long ago. Probably, still doing work!

Why hasn’t any member of the faith community offered or asked to do Communion to the patrons at Summerfest? Just a thought in asking. Not to bug those whom are not so religious. Look, Summerfest goer folks need prayer too. Getting to, in, and from the park!

Can Summerfest really put up a networking area for those looking for work for any job? Or just simply network with other businesses?

I don’t really have to ask this, but could Summerfest provide internships for those who want to get started in the management entertainment business? In any field? In any area? Plus ANY age?

It’s time for me to blow up. Really. I like many African-Americans in this country have “had it up to here” with all this meaningless and pointless B.S. about the “cop calling Caucasians” and they know who they are telling them about certain black folks doing things like sitting down, waiting, sleeping in college areas, refusing to get up for white customers, and a bunch of lame excuses!

CALLOUT: For all those can I say this, and excuse my french: Shut your trap!

You heard me. We see you doing the same stuff almost and do we get on our phones calling the Po-Po? No!

For many weeks, and months, stop me if you read or heard these examples:

Sleeping while Black:

Or what about this concerning Cracker Barrel and it’s long history of discrimination against blacks?

A 57 year old black Air Force Veteran was discriminated in restaurant all because of these things: One, the veteran Randy Freeman, 57 years old is a black male. That’s right. Black Male. And he is a business owner. Two, Cracker Barrel had a extended history of discriminating against black customers for years! That is not so shocking. Three: He was kicked out of the restaurant because the restaurant was accusing him of being rude to waitresses via the manager. In the ending result, he filed a federal lawsuit in the regarding the incident that occurred in April.

Let me switch gears on a “I’m calling you out on being quiet” story. I’m sure that many of you heard about the two Native American Teens were on a college campus and they were questioned by the College Police about who they were and what were they doing on campus looking suspicious?

First off, why were they being questioned because they didn’t talk on the tour?! That BS don’t fly right! It don’t. I’ll agree that even this example is nothing more than a reach for racism! Discrimination. Hating on. Get the message. Obviously they were let go and the University wanted them to come back for a shot at the campus. I wouldn’t take that offer because to me it’s a bribe. The college can beg all they want but if they don’t want to comeback, they shouldn’t. I wouldn’t set foot on that college ever again! They got exposed. My this is, go to a different school that you feel is best for you! Nothing else.

Now back to the black stories. This next one, I really don’t understand. This concerns the recent Community Service project of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Everyone knows that Sigma Gamma Rho is the youngest sorority of the Divine Nine and they wear the royal blue and gold and known for being founded in 1922. Plus the mascot is the Poodle. And yes the Sorority has members of well known names like, Vivica A. Fox, MC Lyte, Martha Reeves, Deshauna Barber (Miss USA), Marylin McCoo, just to name a few figures. And yes like many in the NPHC it’s about service work We know the parties and gatherings and strollings. But the keyword in this is SERVICEWORK!

In Pennslyvania: a group of the sorority were cleaning up a portion of a highway 83 when they were interupted by a State Trooper claiming that they were fighting. Then the State Trooper asked them to show their ID’s. Showing ID’s?! All because they were cleaning the interstate. Really?! Eventually in the end, the Sorority was later resumed doing their services and the State Trooper was dismissed from the area of the conversation.

Now I need to ask this on the real: Was that necessary!? I’ve seen community service projects on the Freeways before. Why is this a concern?! And why does this have to be called in through the authorities?! This is so stupid! It’s clearly stupid because it’s a case of an overreach. Yeah I’m going there that it’s a matter of assumption and suspicion that it’s a vendetta that the ongoing so-called being watchful on black folks is now escalated. We all thought that being watched in stores is one thing. But when we are out in the community doing service duties, or waiting on a friend for a business deal, or hearing a convo during a tour like the Native American Teens encountered, or sleeping in a college commons area, and if the majority of that is black, then there is an assumption of trouble that might spark. Oh, but guess what: there was NO CRIME! NOTHING!

It’s like as the major crime of the century just been unleashed. What was the crimes exactly? Folks, all of this is nothing but one thing: fear. It’s all about fear or the assumption of fear that “Oh, he looks suspicious because he’s not talking to me. He needs to be on watch.” Or like “oh we need to be watching those folks. They need look strange with that activity!” What would happen if church folks of any denomination is doing picture taking for a book and they get questioned by the Police? They are doing ministry! Something bigger than themselves! Where’s the crime in that? I often heard this from one of my former teachers whom were white always say, “do something constructive with yourselves!” Yes white folks I’m sampling that notion from you since 1994! Well……what about it?

All of this is junk. Trying to steer away the actual thought. And it’s completely stupid! There are real crimes that happen everyday. And it’s usually the major ones that get you caught on the evening news or the local paper. Why not go after the bad guys who don’t this?

I was going to write about the BET’s new show, Mancave and putting my spin on it. But I’m putting that on hold until I write this blog story regarding this subject: March For Our Lives.

I like everyone else, looked at the footages of our young folks in D.C. and locally here in Milwaukee protesting and having their say about the recent shootings that effected their schools and the relationship of their classmates. This wasn’t just an American issue, it was also worldwide. It was estimated in DC that over 800,000 plus came out to this rally/march to hear and to protest a substance that has been lingered for so long. Many of us, including me had lost someone we know personally to gun violence. I lost a cousin to gun violence in the summer of 2002 when Milwaukee was facing one of the worst summers at the time. My cousin was just 21 years old. A young black man going to college. And owned an upcoming Ice Cream Parlor. He was gunned down all because there were other folks wanting his car with the spinning rims on the side. He was killed near 47th and Locust and crashed his car near the corner of 47th and Center Streets not too far from Washington High School. All in Milwaukee. My family like many other families that lost loved ones were in horror about losing a young black male to gun violence. Weeks after my cousin’s death, the perps were tracked down and were caught for the crime. Previously, they were serving time.

But that was a personal matter. I know that the connection wasn’t all school related, but the relation of having someone close to you being killed is understandable. Now why am I putting this out on a day like today? Everyone again, has a story. But for this “March for our lives” event to voice our concerns of the recent tragedies in schools this needs NO relation. At all. NONE!

While I was looking at the young teens and some under 13 years old they seem to have a idea. An objective. These young players and girls have a momentum that would rocket them to the next level. They are the Z Generation from what I hear. And this Z Team is not pulling any punches when it comes to the things or ideas they are seeking to help curb Gun Control.

CALLOUT: And I need to say this: for all of you gun nuts who think that this March For Our Lives group is going to take away your firearms or pew pew pistols, they are not. NO ONE IS NOT TAKING AWAY YOUR GUNS! President Obama didn’t take them away and I’m surprised no one took away his Skeet Shooting Rifle! It’s kind of funny that many would believe that. But your firearms are still in your house.

Some of the speakers did spoke out on their “so far” experience. A few of them spoke were black. And some have expressed about not being at the age to give out activism like remarks. But adults, let us remind ourselves that the well known activists we know and read about, started their activism speeches as young as 5 years old. Don’t tell me that you overshot that. Folks like MLK and Rev. Al Sharpton done that. And even though that MLK is dead for nearly 50 years, and Al Sharpton is still living, their activism are lingered in memory and archived for the future. Grown folks, stop playing! It’s been done before. And it just happened again today! Those like Naomi Wadler who is only 11 years old. A 5th Grader speaking out for those whom are African-American girls that don’t make the front pages of newspapers in the nation. Nor the evening news on TV. And she’s from Alexandria, Virginia who lead a walkout via her Elementary School. The black girls she referenced were ranging from – Courtlin Arrington, Hadiya Pendleton and Taiyania Thompson just to name a few.

She also referenced very same City of Chicago that everyone talks about in a question “What about the black-on-black crime?” “What about Chicago?” For black boys: same thing. As an example, Trevon Bosley gave his remarks by stating that “Everyday shootings are everyday problems!” And the keyword is “everyday.”

Now we know that the “suspect supporter” of the lobbyists has the letters “NRA” on them. It’s seems that the NRA has been THE suspect. Why? I think we adults whom have back them and the 2nd Amendment allow this to happen! Of course that the 2nd Amendment has the right to bear arms or having a gun. We know this. BUT when was the last time that NRA has ever backed a thing called responsibility? I never heard the NRA fans like Dana Loesch or that black dude what’s his name, Colion Noir is it? (dude is selling out) never talked about the responsibility of the firearms their members and lobbyists must understood. They never spoke about Philando Castile’s murder in Minnesota nor recently, Stephon Clark’s murder by the Sacramento Police in his grandparent’s backyard! Where you at, NRA? Backing up Trump?! Don’t be surprised if the Gen Z Crew turns that age to vote, get involved in politics/activism and vote out all those who held down that red wall of pain that many fought for so long to take down! Be warned, NRA. They coming. And those who back them, you might be in the wave of truth of getting out of way. Again, these kids now are NOT PLAYING! And they are teaching us and reminding us of our accountable actions!

Many of us in the Baby Boomers, Gen X and yes you Millennial folks, we’ll be in those nursing stations getting someone to wash our butts as we get older and relieve our sickness and diseases to cure our bodies. OK subject off. Not good. But you know what I’m saying.

From David Hogg to Emma Gonzalez and many in between, they were the premiered speakers and survivors and we grown folks had to listen to them. That’s what they wanted. They wanted to speak and they did. But the surprising speaker of all of them was just 8 years old. And she has a legacy to maintain for the next era of the name King. Yes, Yolanda Renee King – MLK’s and Coretta’s only Grand Daughter, Niece of Rev. Bernice King and Dexter King, and daughter of MLK III came out and spoke that she has a dream that enough is enough!

This is King’s Granddaughter speaking. Now I know that she’s only a preteen in elementary school. But after her speaking part of going to be a great generation, there is no telling, she is just beginning to spread her future activism. But I hope that she not only does that, but also maintains the namesake of her family to restore!

Now I want to address all this mess about are the Parkland High School Students are being exploited for all this protesting. My question is, who is exploiting them? Who?

All the grown folks who say that, shut up! They to me are addressing a concern about the violence in the schools recently. There was violence of guns in the Milwaukee Public Schools not too long ago. Were the current students of MPS being exploited about that? When many of us were in high school in the 90’s or 80’s, now as ALUMNI were we exploited with high school violence in our schools not caring?! Yes I went there. And many of us never used the letters “NRA” back then. Unlike now. I don’t think nor believe that the students are being exploited. Seriously, who’s exploiting them?! Who?! One thing about all of this, folks want to stir up stuff that is not true. If that’s the case, they wouldn’t be doing the marching or speaking out period. And their parents would NOT allow them to attend. But wait a minute: this is a country with freedom of expression right? So that means that our young folks can’t speak about the concerns that they witnessed? Many of us grown folks are perpetrating. And many are doing that by the keyboards who think they know it all, but don’t do the homework. Yes grown people I’m talking about us! Or many of us that want to rant with no proof.

Final say: even though that this march is a one day affair of open expression of our youth, it shouldn’t stop today! This needs to be an everyday subject! Everyday! Not just every March 24th, take a photo, say/hear the speeches, performances and go home. I want all the schools to really take heed about what is happening here. And yes this does include the parents! And also the communities, the fraternities, the sororities, the churches, neighborhoods, and many other groups, clubs and organizations that really cares about the safety and well being of our (and I mean OUR) kids! If you don’t have children like me and you’re just looking at this March and rally, I say back up the kids in your churches and community centers/organizations. Women: back up the girls. And as far as the Men (whether you have kids or not) we need to back up our Sons, Nephews, Cousins, Grandsons, Godsons, and young wards/male students who look up to us as head pillars in the community and go to the schools everyday, while we work the clock! Women: same thing if you have sons and no daughters. Men, vice versa with daughters.

I have a message to the Generation Z crew that were active today: I hear you. We all hear you. Let’s do the work to get you started. After all, you are the next players to lead.

Oh, you know I had to do it. Last year I did this and got rave reviews. But I kept it real. Last year for Black History Month, I scratched my head. Now this year, its a repeat. With new updated questions that kept my head scratching since. But for this, it’s for Black History Month 2018. Buckle up! I’m not pulling no punches!

Question: is this statement still relevant? With no substance? Let’s be real. Seriously!

BET has a new show for the black brothers called Mancave. Yes, a black man’s show featuring Tank, Jeff Johnson, Kosine and Slink. They talk about the current affairs of news that goes on. But I have a question: why are you females are watching it? Y’all got Sister Circle on TVONE! No females in the Mancave. I’m just saying!

Is black news really missing NewsOne Now since it got canceled?

Why are folks late reading stuff? Especially about black history? And what I have written?

If Black History is really supposed to be “American History”, why there are some school districts don’t want to hear our history?

Attention Black Authors: we write about our history as well our stories. Past and Present. Does it really matter we do it more?

Again: if we are to supposed to acknowledge our black history everyday, why don’t we at times? Oh were at the lines waiting for the Air Jordans to drop or non big issues that we forget that is meaningless at times. Or were just not engaged!

Black Churches: we have a lot of black history to share up. From the founding of our churches to community involvement. Does it still matter today despite of those hating or assuming that we’re just about the money or praying in circles/tongues? Or going out to eat after the sermon?

Every February 7th, it’s National Black HIV Awareness Day. Want to know the reason?

This week was the start of the original Negro History Week that was the prelude to Black History Month currently. Some ask what was the reason? They should know by now.

Do Black Superheroes Matter? We know Black Panther is coming and Black Lightning is on TV. Either way, black superheroes are winning.

Does Black Archiving Matter? Ask yourself if you are a black historian of any kind.

Does Black Employment Matter? And I’m not talking about just owning your business!

10 years ago, am I the only one followed the momentum when Barack Obama was gaining to be the first black president?

For my Alumni Black Educators and Family! Does forming or being involved in a Black Alumni Chapter really matters to us? Especially at the PWI Schools that have or had minor population of black students with Black Student Unions? By the way: ALL COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES who don’t have an Black Alumni Chapter need to start one!

For my Military Black Families and Black Veterans, and Families of Black Veterans: Do we matter? After all, many of our Fathers, Grandfathers, Uncles, Aunts, Mothers, Cousins, Grandmothers, etc all have a history of serving in Uniform that is part of the tradition since the American Revolution. Even in times when America didn’t love us back! Keep up other folks.

I need to ask this: How many African-American Sons and Daughters right now are apart of the American Legion Family? I need to ask this for real! And how many actually don’t know what the American Legion Family is whom have or had Veterans in the family that lived or died?

For those saying Black Future Month, you know the things you doing now will be history, right? Not trying to spoil the parade here.

So folks want to make a joke about Black History Month as a punch line to pop off at the mouth for hate. Ummm…..so many don’t do it around Hispanic Heritage Month or Women’s History Month?

Recently in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, one my local journalist commented about former Interim Mayor Marvin Pratt about the city not having a full term mayor of African-American decent. If you know Milwaukee historically, majority of the Mayors are white and known to have popularity. Why does Milwaukee’s problem with black mayors of ideas have a concern? And the city is 172 years old with a segregated past and present.

When ABC’s Scandal is done, and it’s the last season, what ranking will the show be on the best list concerning black television?

There was a indication of Black Slave traders that sold their own into slavery and also managed the slaves. True or False?

Who’s looking forward watching Black Olympians in the Winter Games? You know they are in Korea. Oh, and by the way: Shani Davis is in competition.

Here in Wisconsin, one candidate of the democrats is African-American named Mahlon Mitchell. Could he be the man to take out Scott Walker? Better vote up, Wisconsin!

In Wisconsin: what is the Black Community’s real response to Foxconn? Mainly for those who don’t have their own transportation!

If you are woke and black, you need to see this clip over and over again. Why you ask?

It seems that every year that those who say “I’m black every month” is probably bored around Black History Month. What are the reasons? Are we not engaged enough? What is the problem? We still don’t know everything as we know some to say at least.

For my Black Motorcycle Riders: is the Iron Elite still on point for Harley-Davidson? And are you coming to Milwaukee for HD’s 115th Anniversary in the Summer?

You non-Black folks: as you explore Black History, you realize that not every black folk is considered a thug or a N*gger, right? Many of us were raised way better than that.

Which current African-Americans in the companies is the best OWNER and Supervisor right now that is making history? And got the inspiration from those that MADE HISTORY?

Who were and are the best UNSUNG Blacks Heroes that never got any recognition that deserved recognition right now?

Bonus question: In honor of those whom are not here with us, which of our Black Ancestors were a beacon to have us move forward in life and career?

And the last question: yes we know this question, do we believe that Black Excellence is still available and hopeful?

The Milwaukee Public Schools Alumni showed out again this year. Can it happen again in 2018?

Surprise, Surprise Milwaukee: Are you ready for UW-Stout’s alumni return in 2018?

For many think that the use of Black Owned Businesses would be the key, can they maintain the subject to fix, or to further create?

Hey Harley-Davidson riders: you know we have this 115th Anniversary next summer for the Motorcycles, right? And Milwaukee black businesses: BE READY!

You: the Alt-Right, you must be still playing yourselves. Aren’t you?

Covfefe. What was that?

Who was the really the biggest fool of 2017?

Who really had the unsung character of 2017?

Who really had the top hand of respect of 2017?

Question: Back in the 90’s Steven Seagal and Jean-Claude Van Damme were the best Martial Arts Actors in the game. Now they support Putin. WHY?!!!!!

Of all the shows: was there any show that was really better than Empire or Blackish in 2017? Be honest now.

In addition to the females being sexually harassed in the game, what about the men who were harassed? Terry Crews was the only man in 2017 that told his story. Men, we need to talk!

Who’s ready for Black Lighting in 2018?

Who’s ready for Black PANTHER in 2018?

Who drank the Pepsi Caramel Soda?

Why did Aretha Franklin and Dionne Warrick had that feud? Like really?!

Haters: Having a Black TV Talk Show is not racist. Must we explain why?

Did the WWE Network delivered again?

Has DirecTV Now really sunk in?

You know that the #MeToo movements really started in 2007 by a black woman, right? Tarana Burke is the name.

Folks again this year talked about Colin Kaepernick taking a stand. Well did he proved a point? By being one of GQ’s Awards winners of the year?

Did many knew or realized that Black Male Introverts can actually exist?

Who really did watched the NFL games despite of the protests?

Getting Real: Why do folks on social media mouth off on those that they don’t like? Church, dating, the other side of the moon, you know the usual? And get all “free thinkish” about it knowing half of what they post or talk about is NOT TRUE! Even though all opinions are respected sometimes.

Don’t believe in God? Start!

Is Amazon Fire Stick, Roku, or DirecTV Now really the new thing in TV like right now?

Which is better for those whom are single, or going to be single in 2018? Dating or no dating?

Will we be really saying in the future: “Remember when Barack Obama was running?” Oh think about it!

CALLOUT: For all you haters of Black Lives Matter and the Police Organizations that run the hate to Walmart: were you really that serious about removing the attire, but said nothing about the KKK or the “Stars and Bars”?

Many believe that this year of 2017 was that year. Well, did you claim what you were looking for?

MASSIVE SOCIAL MEDIA CALLOUT AGAIN LIKE LAST YEAR: Can we PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, JESUS, ALLAH, BUDDHA or SCIENTOLOGY: use the “You’re” word on Facebook correctly as well as other forms of Social Media? Like for example, “You’re It!” Not “Your it”. Or “If you don’t follow me on so and so, you’re not welcome here no more. Not “If you don’t follow me on so and so your not welcome here no more.” We need to respell and check our words, folks! – And no stop blaming the Public Schools systems! Blame the person, you.

Who is really the conscious groups: The church folk, the business folk, the activist, the talk show host, or the unsung folk?

Why do Americans have a short attention memory span? All the dang time! Like really!

When many famous folks this year have passed on and we had “this care” about them, where was the CARE for our own folks?

It’s New Years Eve. Stay home or go out?

Since some of the fallen died of heart attacks, diabetes, cancer, or many other factors: are we really looking out for our health needs? This not just to those whom are men, but those whom are females too! Especially those of us who are black!

Which movie rocked the house this year? Besides Star Wars The Last Jedi or Transformers? Or Wonder Woman?

Which music singles or albums have really rocked the house in the year?

Was Amazon Alexa really hard to ask?

Why so many things of #BlackGirlMagic, or #BlackBoyJoy were huge this year again? Well look at the results.

Will many turn up for the Midterm elections in 2018 by not staying home?

Will the United Methodist Church let the ideas of #BlackLivesMatter in the doors?

Who will have the best New Years Eve show? Ryan Seacrest or Anderson Cooper?

For all of my “snow/cold haters”: umm since you like hot weather so much, why weren’t you complaining about the heat EARLIER IN THE YEAR?! Yeah you hot weather dwellers, confess!

If 2017 was the year to “get lucky”, what about 2018 as in to “Get grown?

Will the Green Bay Packers revive to run the table next season? You Packer haters must be thanking the Vikings for putting the injury on Aaron Rodgers.

Will the Wisconsin Badgers Football Team win the Orange Bowl?

Will you continue to read the stuff I put on here? Not just have written like 4+ years ago?

What about that Google Speaker that answers your calls?

Can folks whom are so picky about not going to Church all because of the Pastor or that money really get off the high horse about going and giving advice? Besides behind the keyboards? And acting like foolish keyboard gangsters? They know who they are. Even if they your family members or folks that you haven’t seen in years?

Know any good Doctors that take in folks that know patients families that know them well? Besides those Cigma commercials?

Will many in the black community support (REALLY SUPPORT) black owned businesses that do follow the protocol?

How many black churches will attend Watch Night Services on New Year’s Eve? It’s WAY legendeary than Rockin’ Eve!

Did you support your Alumni this year (not just high school, but college and universities also)?

Why are many of us are NOT EDUCATED that well when it comes to health? Hint it’s not just the men folk here. Women you in this also.

Will there be a “in house online DJ” that will spin the sounds from the crib while many of us are at the house on NYE? THINK ABOUT THAT

CALLOUT: There were bigots on Social Media made names this year. Even those who was at Charlottesville . Who will NOT have a job in 2018?

Any Uber or Lyft Drivers will be on stat on NYE making money?

Any Photohogs and DroneHogs will be on stat making money on NYE?

Will many graduate in 2018 as well as going into the schools in 2018?

If those are really conscious about being pro this and pro that, what about being pro Alumni?

Will Ronda Rousey comeback strong……..in the WWE?

Who used a fitbit this year? Or any fit to walk to burn calories?

How many plan to do something daring in 2018?

How many will do the things that they put off in the previous years and actually do it this year?!

What is that one song you want to end your 2017? And the song you want begin with your 2018?

And the last thing I have to ask: I will say this to ask humbly, will you vote in 2018?